Step up the NZ stand on annexation

The Israeli ambassador to NZ, Dr Itzhak Gerberg, refused to meet with J-LINK, a group of progressive Jewish people, who wished to discuss concerns for Israel’s plans to annex parts of the West Bank.

He also used a tweet to respond to the minister of foreign affairs’ announcement that criticised Israel’s plan to extend its sovereignty on occupied Palestinian territory starting today.

Unilateral annexation is illegal under international law and contravenes all relevant UN Security Council resolutions pertaining to the Israel-Palestine conflict.

The inability of the Israeli Government to engage in any form of dialogue, including with Jewish voices in the diaspora, reflects a general contempt by the Netanyahu-led government for democracy, human rights and justice.

While I applaud the New Zealand Government in making a statement on this issue, I encourage the minister to join progressive Jewish voices from around the world by sending a stronger message to Israel.

To find peace through justice Israel must cease its ongoing colonial project of land annexation and oppressive military rule of the Palestinian people.

Sue Berman, member of Dayenu (New Zealand Jews again Occupation) and signature to J-LINK Aotearoa